Support

Support

Religious vocations can be truly beautiful and joyfilled ways of life, filled with many blessings, however they can also be very demanding. One of the best things we can do for religious vocations is to support our priests and religious brothers and sisters. I should say though continue to support, because we already receive an incredible amount of support from the people we serve. For this we are truly grateful, because it is your support that inspires and encourages us all, and helps us to live out our vocations joyfully. ​​​​​​

Reach out

Take the opportunity to affirm and thank your priests and religious brother and sisters for their calling. Consider inviting them over for dinner, and connecting with them on a more personal level. Speaking positively about the ministry they do are little things that go a long way. Not to mention, hearing positive stories about how a priest or religious made a difference in someone’s life can leave a lasting impression, particularly on young people.

Solutions

Priests and religious often receive suggestions about ways to build the faith and minister at the parish level. These can be helpful, and it generally shows how committed people are to Christ and active in the faith. However, if you come with a suggestion to a priest, like ‘we need this type of prayer group’ or ‘we need this kind of ministry to the homebound,’ etc., don’t just come with the suggestions but also come with a solution! Give a tangible sense that you’re not only bringing this concern or need, you’re also volunteering to make that happen. That really helps to open up their mind and heart to the possibility, so they know it’s not just going to be them carrying this load.

Pray

Please pray for wisdom in all the different situations and people that our priests, and religious brothers and sisters are called to interact with. Pray that they will be led to God’s Will. Pray for courage to keep living this vocation in the midst of a culture that is not supportive in many respects. Pray for strength that they won’t get tired and be able to keep hanging in there. Offer a Mass for them, maybe some time in adoration, pray a rosary at home; pray for your local priest. It makes all the difference! Thank you so much for your prayers.